Developing improvement strategies on the use of Automated Dispensing Cabinets to reduce medication errors in a hospital setting.

摘要

Automated Dispensing Cabinets (ADC) were implemented as a means to reduce medication errors and cost in the healthcare facility. However, discrepancies still exist and had the potential of creating medication errors. This was a major concern the healthcare facility faced. This qualitative research study was conducted to identify how medication errors occurred when using the automated dispensing cabinets. It also identified improvement strategies that could help improve the efficiency of the automated dispensing cabinets and reduce medication errors in patient care areas. The theoretical foundations that supported this research study were theories of constraints and organizational change theory. This research study surveyed a small number of nursing and pharmacy staff to learn of their experiences on the use of the automated dispensing cabinets and the processes in which they take when medication is unavailable for timely administration. Most of the participants had experience with the automated dispensing cabinets and were somewhat satisfied with the new system. They all have had challenges prior to and after implementation of the ADCs. Staff members were not able to keep track of all medication errors that occurred in the facility. Once the system was implemented medication errors were better managed. However, inventory control suffered as these new systems created new ways for errors to occur. This research study gives guidance to this facility as well as other healthcare facilities that are looking for ways to improve medication errors through the use of automated dispensing cabinets.